What Is High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)?

What is HIIT?

High Intensity Interval Training or HIIT for short, is a workout routine that includes short bursts of high-intensity exercises that alternate with low-intensity periods.

HIIT is designed to be a complete physical activity program. It includes things like:

Walking

Running

Stair climbing

Cycling

Rowing

Cross-country skiing

Swimming

Each of these activities is designed to work a separate muscle group, in order to achieve a full body workout. Strength training is also a good addition to do twice a week. Strength training can be done with weights, body weight, resistance bands, and other weight machines.

Why is HIIT so popular?

HIIT training is becoming the next best thing for a few reasons. It can be modified for different fitness levels or special conditions. It has also been shown to provide results similar to longer 'continuous' exercise workouts. HIIT has been a major part of athletic training programs for years. The incorporation of HIIT into regular conditioning workouts has been shown to boost cardiovascular fitness quickly and efficiently.